Memphis Standard

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn, representing Tennessee, has taken the lead in urging President Joe Biden to promptly approve Governor Bill Lee's request for an updated major disaster declaration. This appeal follows the severe flash flooding caused by Hurricane Helene's remnants.

Governor Lee has requested federal resources and individual assistance to address the devastation left by the hurricane. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Individuals and Households Program (IHP) offers financial aid and direct services to eligible individuals affected by disasters who have uninsured or underinsured expenses and serious needs.

In a letter addressed to President Biden, the Tennessee Congressional delegation highlighted the urgent need for federal support due to significant damage across Tennessee, particularly in East Tennessee. The region experienced unprecedented rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 12 inches of rain. Several rivers approached or exceeded historical flood stage records, leading to catastrophic flash flooding that damaged infrastructure such as I-40 and resulted in power outages affecting many residents.

As of September 30, disruptions were reported at approximately 20 water treatment facilities impacting over 160,000 people. Additionally, 77 school districts faced interruptions due to extreme weather conditions. Tragically, six deaths have been attributed to the flooding by the Tennessee Department of Health, and searches continue for over 100 missing individuals in affected counties.

Governor Lee is requesting Individual Assistance for Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington Counties. He also seeks Public Assistance for these counties plus Grainger County and requests Hazard Mitigation statewide. Furthermore, he is asking for full federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective services during the first 45 days following the incident starting September 26.

The letter was co-signed by Senator Bill Hagerty and U.S. Representatives Chuck Fleischmann, Mark Green, Tim Burchett, Steve Cohen, Scott DesJarlais, David Kustoff, Diana Harshbarger, Andy Ogles, and John Rose.